Music event brings light to a dark Wimmera day
It is not typical to plan a community event for the peak of winter, but the late Keith Fischer had a mission.
He wanted an event that would not only raise money for mental health services, but to also bring joy on the darkest day of the year.
It was for this reason, on June 22, the Northwest Grampians Lions Club enticed more than 160 people out of the house to enjoy The Bushwackers in concert.
“It was a Sunday afternoon, on the shortest day of the year; that was Keith’s idea,” vice-president Mal Griffiths said.
“Keith wanted something upbeat, that would bring the community together and raise money for mental health.”
The event raised $1,500 for Grampians Health Edenhope’s Rural Outreach program, which offers free non-clinical mental health support across the Wimmera.
Keith died in the weeks before the event, which became a tribute to him and his work.
“It was hard, not having him there, because he would’ve loved seeing it,” Mr Griffiths said.
"It was an emotional day, but exactly what he wanted."
Rural Outreach worker Mal Coutts spoke at the event, highlighting the power of community.
“Sometimes we need a reminder, to make sure we talk and look after each other,” he said.
“I was there to start the conversation, about mental health and suicide, because often people aren’t comfortable bringing it up. A huge part of my role is just creating a space for people to speak and process things; and that’s something we can all offer each other.”
Mr Coutts urged people to contact Rural Outreach for a non-judgmental, free conversation.
“You don’t have to be in crisis to pick up the phone and request a chat,” he said.
“This is a free service that aims to prevent some of the more serious mental health issues and offer that support before things escalate.
The beauty of our job is that we can drive out and meet people wherever they need, whether it’s at the kitchen table or in the sheep yards.”
Grampians Health Edenhope Campus Manager Tricia McInnes thanked the Northwest Grampians Lions Club for its ongoing support.
“This isn’t the first time the club has supported our Rural Outreach program and it reflects a community-wide desire to support mental health in the region,” she said.
“Rural Outreach is a unique, award-winning, program that was designed to meet the unique needs of our Wimmera communities. We are extremely grateful to everyone involved in the event, not just for the financial contribution, but for the assistance in promoting this vital service.”
The concert was supported by a list of sponsors and businesses, which donated raffle prizes, accommodation and meals for the band, and grant money.
Rural Outreach is a free service offering mental health support in a location that suits you. To find out more, phone 1300 OUTREACH (1300 688 732).
